True Republican, 3 October 1944

Mrs. Olga Bodeen Smith former Sycamore resident was found dead Sunday morning in her bed at the home of John Geithman of Genoa, where she had kept house for several years. She had been ill with the flu for about two weeks, but was up and about the home Saturday. When she did not make her appearance Sunday morning, an investigation was made and she was found about 7:30 a.m.

Olga Louise Bodeen was born July 26, 1890 in Sycamore, the daughter of August and Anna Johnson Bodeen. Her entire young life was spent in Sycamore where she attended the Sycamore schools. In 1912 she was united in marriage to Balt Smith and for several years they lived on a farm in South Grove.

In 1926, they moved to Genoa, where she has since resided. For the past four years her mother, Mrs. Anna Bodeen, 86, has lived with her. Her mother being in feeble health, has received very good care from her daughter. Her death comes as a shock to her many friends. She had a generous nature, was kind and very friendly.

She was confirmed in the class of 1904 in the Sycamore Salem Lutheran church and for many years was an active member. Since moving to Genoa, she has been affiliated with the Methodist church and was an active member of circle one. Mrs. Smith was also a member of the American Legion Auxiliary and of the Golden Star O.E.S.

The decedent is survived by her mother, four brothers, Charles and William Bodeen of Sycamore; Adolph of Washington, D.C.; and Arthur of Los Angeles, Calif.; one sister, Mrs. A. L. (Olive) Olson of Los Angeles, Calif.; several nieces and nephews. Three brothers have preceded her in death, Oscar in infancy, George and Edward.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday afternoon at 2 o'clock from the Johnson-Van Natta Funeral home with Rev. C. G. H. Ahnquist, pastor of the Salem Lutheran Church, officiating. Burial will be in the family lot in the Elmwood cemetery. Friends may call at the Johnson-Van Natta Funeral Home.